5 common myths about cats debunked

(NewsUSA) - There are some things that everybody knows about cats, such as they purr when they're happy. But you might be surprised to learn that many of the "facts" you know about cats are actually untrue. For example, while cats often purr when they're happy, they may also purr when they're anxious or uncomfortable.

Do you know fact from fiction about your cat? Here are a few common cat myths debunked:

Myth #1. Cats should drink cow's milk. Cats do not need to drink milk. In fact, cats typically lose the ability to drink milk after they're weaned, so feeding them milk can give them diarrhea.

Myth #2. Cats should eat fish. It's perfectly fine to give Fluffy fish every once in awhile, but it's far from kitty's ideal food. Cats need an amino acid called taurine in their diet, and fish do not provide it. Fish, as a regular part of the diet, could make your cat sick.

Myth #3. It is natural for cats to have bad breath. If kitty's "morning breath" makes you want to heave, it's a sign that your cat has an oral health problem and should see a veterinarian. You can prevent dental problems by brushing your cat's teeth. If your cat is uncooperative, try adding oral care probiotics to its food.

Myth #4. Cats always land on their feet. Cats are agile creatures with the ability to twist in mid-air, but if they're falling from a short height, they won't have time to put themselves feet-first. A fall from a great height could kill or seriously injure a cat, whether it lands on its feet or not.

Myth #5. Cats gain weight if they are spayed or neutered. Cats' metabolisms do change after they are fixed, but weight gain can be easily avoided by simply decreasing the amount of food that you feed them. Spaying or neutering is one of the the best things you can do for your cat, as it reduces the risk of some types of cancer and helps your cat avoid contributing to the pet overpopulation problem.